Strangely Familiar

This was the theme chosen by Anna Hughes, Julie Sanger Gowers and Susanne Taylor for their recent exhibition at The Upstairs Gallery Space in The Nellie Dean public house, Soho.

The theme inspired work that showed how familiar objects and settings can be used as starting points for inventive and imaginative processes. Compositions were often simple, sometimes complex, but always lively and pleasing to the eye.

All three artists are based in Essex and have exhibited together on previous occasions. Their different approaches to media and subject matter, a similar lyrical and graceful treatment of their chosen areas, and a shared interest in ordinary items or situations ensured a display that was both diverse and cohesive. Anna Hughes’ relief prints are inspired by still life, her garden, the woods beyond, and images collected while travelling. Julie Sanger Gowers combines traditional techniques with electronic media. In her paintings and collages objects are juxtaposed to achieve new and unusual relationships between space and subject. Susanne Taylor’s images are based upon direct observation and present a personal vision of light, colour and form through watercolour, acrylic and print.

The Preview Evening, held in November, was attended by the friends and family members of all three exhibitors and The Nellie Dean was an ideal venue for such an occasion. Thanks go to Kim Beeching, for her help in organising the exhibition and to all those who joined in celebrating the work of these artists.

 

Anna Hughes	Julie Sanger Gowers	Susanne Taylor